Daocheng Yading｜Chonggu Temple and the Mysterious Prayer Flag Forest

In Daocheng Yading, Chonggu Temple and the Prayer Flag Forest are distinctive landscapes that carry profound cultural heritage and showcase unique natural and cultural beauty. Here is the related introduction: Chonggu Temple - Basic Information: Chonggu Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,880 meters. It was founded during the Yuan Dynasty and belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its Tibetan name means "filling the lake to build the temple," and it is said to have been built to suppress evil spirits in the lake. - Historical Significance: In 1928, explorer Joseph Rock lived here. He published his observations in the American National Geographic magazine, inspiring Hilton to write "Lost Horizon." Therefore, Chonggu Temple is considered one of the prototypes of the Shangri-La Lama Temple. - Architecture and Worship: The temple features stone and wood construction, thick walls, a red-tiled roof, and intricately carved main gates. The main hall houses numerous Buddha statues, including Master Tsongkhapa, Shakyamuni Buddha, and Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva. Prayer Flag Forest - Chonggu Temple Prayer Flags: Large numbers of prayer flags surround Chonggu Temple, hanging on the red walls around the temple. Against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, they flutter in the wind, creating a stunning scene. The flags are printed with scriptures, and each flutter represents a blessing. - Bangpu Temple Rainbow Prayer Flag Valley: Located near Daocheng Yading, this place is free from crowded tourists. The prayer flags flutter in the wind, forming a peaceful and magnificent scene together with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and streams. It is a great spot for photography, with the best lighting at noon or dusk.